Norma Jean Chapman, age 93, of Kuttawa, Kentucky (formerly Cadiz, KY, and Henderson, KY), passed away peacefully at River’s Bend Retirement Center on April 22, 2025. She was born on April 20, 1932, in Webster County, Kentucky, to William Orville “Doc” and Elva Graham Brightman.
Jean attended Georgetown College, where she was a proud member of the Sigma Kappa Sorority. She later continued her studies at Kentucky Wesleyan College and Western Kentucky University. With a heart for teaching and a love for children, Jean dedicated her professional life to education, retiring from Owensboro Independent Schools after years of service as a reading specialist.
A member of Cadiz Methodist Church, Jean found strength in her faith. She was also a spirited fan of Kentucky Wildcats basketball, making sure she always had the SEC network so she wouldn’t miss a game.
Jean was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved son, Dr. William Scott Chapman, and daughter-in-law MaryAnne (Kotheimer) Chapman, brothers Ben William Brightman and Orville Brightman Jr, and sisters Evadean Brightman and Anna Sue Brightman Rich. She is survived by her loving daughter, Marilyn (John) White of Eddyville, KY; grandchildren Rachel (Josh) Ball of Hebron, KY, Michael Chapman of Tahoe City, CA, Graham White of Clarksville, TN; Taylor Chapman and Clay Chapman of Louisville, KY; daughter-in-law Roni Chapman of Henderson, KY, sister Linda (Larry) Edmonson of Eddyville, KY; and a host of extended family who will miss her dearly.
Visitation will be held at King’s Funeral Home in Cadiz, Kentucky, on Sunday, April 27, from 12:30-1:30 pm. A graveside burial service will follow at 3 pm at New Hope Well Cemetery at 3 pm in Clay, KY, where Jean will be laid to rest. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, warm heart, and kindness.
Instead of Flowers, donations may be made to Bright Life Farms, 10200 Farmersville Road, Princeton, KY 42445
Or to Cadiz Methodist Church
482 Lakota Drive
Cadiz, KY 42211
